This Content Is Only For Subscribers
KUCHING, Sept 19: Sarawak Society for the Deaf (SSD) will celebrate ‘International Week of Deaf People 2023’ and ‘International Day of Sign Languages 2023’ on Saturday (Sept 23) at the SSD centre on Jalan Laksamana Cheng Ho here, aligning with the global theme of ‘A World Where Deaf People Everywhere Can Sign Anywhere!’.
According to a SSD press release, the programme aims to celebrate ‘International Week of Deaf People’ by raising awareness about the importance of sign language and promoting inclusivity for the Deaf community.
“Through various activities and initiatives, the programme seeks to empower deaf individuals to communicate comfortably and confidently in any environment,” it said.
SSD highlighted that the vision of the ‘International Week of Deaf People’ and ‘International Sign Language Day’ is to create a world in which Deaf people can freely communicate anywhere.
“The event also hopes to provide an opportunity for the public to learn about deaf culture, gain insights into the challenges faced by the deaf community, and celebrate the achievements and talents of deaf individuals.
“Through interactive activities and engaging sessions, the event seeks to raise awareness, foster understanding, and promote inclusivity.”
SSD appealed to the general public, corporations, and organisations to support the event, as the day serves as a platform to advocate for the rights of Deaf members and to foster understanding and support within society.
The event will feature a variety of activities, including an exhibition showcasing Deaf artist exhibition and booths, an interactive art workshop led by Awangku Mohd Zakaria, a fun BIM (Malaysian Sign Language) session, an awareness talk presented by Deaf speakers, and a sharing session on Deaf Culture Experience from Friend of the Deaf (FOD).
“We encourage members of the public to participate. The event will commence at 9am at SSD, and will end at 5pm.”
SSD also stated that admission is free, and that the sign-up fee for each session will be RM10, which includes a chance to win a Sarawakian Deaf Culture book and mystery gifts from SSD.
“SSD centre on Jalan Laksamana Cheng Ho in Kuching offers car wash service, tailoring, craft, and plant sales.
“Therefore, sign language courses are conducted in the evenings for the general public and also for companies to allow their staff to learn basic sign language.
“SSD encourages the general public to learn sign language as an added communication skill. Through the fun learning teaching method by our three Deaf Malaysian Sign Language teachers (Ernest Ting, Yeo Suh Chan, and Amy Lau), the students will learn Bahasa Isyarat Malaysia (BIM), also known as Malaysian Sign Language, to communicate and interact with the Deaf.”
Contact the organising chairman, Ernest Ting (Deaf), at 016-8716216 (WhatsApp only), secretary Helena Lim at 013-8094599, SSD fax at 082-425479, or email ssdkuching1982@gmail.com for more information.
More information will be posted on the Sarawak Society for the Deaf’s Facebook page. — DayakDaily
